The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) of the Philippines released a statement on Thursday, stating that a former employee of a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) was arrested on the spot at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on July 13 for alleged human trafficking, successfully rescuing 8 Filipinos who were about to be sent to Cambodia for online scam operations.
DMW revealed that the suspect was attempting to transport the victims to Vietnam and Cambodia. According to investigations, he was ordered by a former Chinese employer to arrange the necessary documents for the victims' departure. The 8 people intercepted this time were the third batch planned to be sent to Cambodia.
It is reported that the suspect could receive compensation in cryptocurrency for each successful recruitment, forming a "head-for-coin" profit chain. He is now facing multiple charges including illegal recruitment and human trafficking, and law enforcement is investigating whether there are other accomplices involved.
The Bureau of Migrant Workers' Protection of DMW urges anyone else who is a victim or has information to contact them through their official Facebook account to seek legal assistance. Meanwhile, the authorities reiterated that the Philippine government will continue to combat human trafficking and transnational scam syndicates to ensure the safety of its citizens.
